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I have had no experience in using Copper sulphate as an alternative to chlorine for drinking water. I have made enquiries with other engineers at Anglian Water, unfortunately none of them have any experience or knowledge of the product being used in applications here in the UK.

Copper sulphate is widely used as a fungicide to control bacterial and fungal diseases of fruit & vegetables in the farming sector. I know that Copper sulphate, was one of the first methods used to disinfect water, but concerns arose with regards to the toxicity levels at high concentrations. The EPA limit for copper sulphate in drinking water is 1 ppm (1 mg/l). This limit has been set to prevent a disagreeable taste from copper in drinking water, as well as to provide adequate protection from toxicity.

I have done some research on Earth Tec, and they are registered with the US EPA. Their advisory dosage rates results in a maximum of 0.06ppm (0.06 mg/l) of copper, which is acceptable. Although I think it's important to remember that their product is predominantly for Pre-treatment of drinking water, i.e. the control of algae & reduction of bacteria which is good in reducing the overall kill rate, but the water might still require a final disinfectant step (i.e. chlorination etc) before it can be consumed. Tests will have to be done to confirm whether this product is sufficient for disinfection on its own (bearing in mind the restricted dosing rates).

Regards, Kubeshnee